GIZ seeks a CPS Advisor to strengthen Indigenous Peoples’ rights in the Caraga region. Based in Surigao City. Open to EU/German nationals. Apply by 8 Feb 2026.
Job Title: Civil Peace Service (CPS) Advisor (Strengthening Indigenous Peoples’ Rights)
| Organization | Deutsche Gesellschaft fĂĽr Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH |
| Program | Civil Peace Service (CPS) |
| Location | Surigao City, Philippines (Asia) |
| Contract Type | Development Worker (2 Years+) |
| Application Deadline | 08 February 2026 |
Operational Context
The Civil Peace Service (CPS) is a global program for violence prevention and conflict transformation. In the Philippines, GIZ CPS advisors support civil society and state actors to build inclusive and sustainable peace in Mindanao. Our work focuses on strengthening non-violent conflict transformation structures, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and amplifying the voices of disadvantaged groups, including Indigenous Peoples (IP).
We are recruiting a CPS Advisor to support the strengthening of Indigenous Peoples’ rights and local governance in the Caraga region. This role involves close collaboration with the non-governmental organization SEDMFI and the Mamanwa IP communities.
Position Mandate
You will serve as a strategic advisor and facilitator, working alongside national colleagues to enhance the political participation of Mamanwa communities. Your primary mandate is to support the implementation and development of the “Caraga” strategy, which aims to strengthen community resilience and foster constructive cooperation between Indigenous groups and local government units.
You will act as a bridge-builder, facilitating platforms for dialogue and exchange that promote the rights of Indigenous Peoples while navigating complex local governance dynamics.
Key Responsibilities
Advisory & Strategic Support
- Provide technical accompaniment to Mamanwa communities and SEDMFI to strengthen their cooperation with local government institutions.
- Advise partners on the further development of cooperation strategies and the enhancement of strategic capacities within Indigenous communities.
- Develop context analyses and facilitate participatory planning processes, ensuring all activities adhere to conflict sensitivity and human rights-based approaches.
Dialogue & Network Building
- Facilitate an IP exchange platform to strengthen indigenous rights networks and connect Mamanwa communities with national and international advocacy bodies.
- Conceptualize inclusive safe spaces for dialogue and non-violent conflict transformation between actors with conflicting interests in the Caraga region.
Monitoring & Learning
- Design and facilitate participatory monitoring and learning processes with partners.
- Contribute to internal CPS knowledge management and team-based reflection processes.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a peacebuilding professional with high cultural sensitivity and a strong academic background in social sciences.
Essential Qualifications
- Citizenship: You must hold German nationality or the nationality of a member state of the European Union. This is a mandatory requirement for GIZ Development Service positions.
- Education: Academic background in Social or Political Sciences, Peace and Conflict Studies, or Human Rights.
- Experience: Several years of experience working with Civil Society Organizations in peacebuilding or strengthening Indigenous Peoples’ rights.
- Technical Skills: Sound knowledge of peacebuilding concepts, empowerment processes, and human rights frameworks.
- Regional Experience: Living and working experience in Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines, is a strong asset.
Competencies
- Resilience: High tolerance for ambiguity and frustration, with strong flexibility in changing environments.
- Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to facilitate complex multi-stakeholder processes.
- Languages: Fluency in English is required.
Location & Conditions
- Duty Station: Surigao City, Philippines.
- Context: Surigao is a mid-sized coastal city (approx. 200,000 inhabitants) with a relaxed atmosphere. The security situation is generally good, though vigilance is required. The area is vulnerable to typhoons.
- Benefits: As a Development Worker, you will receive a comprehensive package including a local salary, attractive monthly allowances, social security, and professional preparation.
- Travel: Willingness to travel regularly within the region is required.
How to Apply
Closing Date: 08 February 2026
To be considered for this position, please submit your application via the GIZ E-recruiting system.
GIZ is a signatory of the Diversity Charter. We welcome applications from people with disabilities and value diversity within our teams.